Salme Poopuu (October 18, 1939 – May 13, 2017) was a versatile Estonian filmmaker and actress whose career spanned nearly five decades. Born in the village of Rahtla on Saaremaa Island to Alexander Theodor and Triinu Poopuu, she was the eldest of three siblings. The family relocated to Kuressaare when she was nine, and later moved to Türi, where she completed her education. Poopuu pursued higher education at the University of Tartu, studying economic geography and demography. It was here that she connected with fellow students interested in film, igniting her passion for the medium.
Her professional journey began in 1969 as a production assistant on the music documentary *Uksed*, directed by Madis Ojamaa. Over the years, Poopuu held various roles at Tallinnfilm from the early 1970s to 1996, including actress, producer, and director. She also collaborated with international production companies until 1998 and contributed to several film projects with Estonian firms such as Estofilm and Exitfilm.
In addition to her behind-the-scenes work, Poopuu appeared in numerous films and television series. One of her notable performances was in the 1972 comedy *Noor pensionär*. More recently, she gained recognition for her role as Salme in the teen comedy-drama series *Ühikarotid* from 2010 to 2012. Poopuu, who remained single throughout her life, was also an active member of the Estonian Greens political party. She passed away in Tallinn at the age of 77, leaving behind a rich legacy in Estonian cinema.
